Dashing Through the Snow

This month, we’re pleased to have Molly Wangsgaard join us in the Diet Blog as our Featured Guest Blogger. Molly is a Corporate Dietitian and Program Development Manager for Jenny Craig, Inc., and will be sharing some helpful strategies on how to maintain your healthy eating and exercise behaviors during this tempting time of year.

And through the grocery store, and around the mall, and across the kitchen!

When your holiday to-do list seems particularly insurmountable, it’s easy to let your physical activity plans fall by the wayside. During these busy days, when you don’t think you have time to exercise, is when you need it the most. Regular physical activity helps alleviate stress, prevent weight gain and nurture your spirit. And when your days are filled with doing, doing, doing for others, it gives you that warm feeling of accomplishment that you’ve done something positive for yourself. The bottom line is that it’s important to keep moving during this hectic time of year.

Make it fun. Jenny Craig spokesperson Valerie Bertinelli loves to get outside, whether it’s walking her dogs, hiking with her boyfriend Tom or horsing around with the kids. In addition to these fun activities consider playing a game of tag with your children or sledding with your family. Enjoy special time together as you model positive activity behaviors.

Savor the season. If you live in a cool climate, try skiing, ice-skating or building a snowman. Strolling through the neighborhood to see holiday lights is a great activity in any climate. Make activity part of the day’s festivities by playing a game of touch football or Frisbee or organizing an indoor scavenger hunt.

Kick up your heels. Spend more time on the dance floor at your next company function—and less time at the hors d’oeuvres table. You’ll minimize calories and maximize fun! Dancing is a great at-home activity too. Move to the beat of your favorite CD in the warmth of your living room.
Be consistent with your activity routine. Consider waking up a little early to be active, so a chaotic day doesn’t alter your plans. If you choose to skip your spinning class to squeeze in an extra holiday errand, make it up with a few extra laps around the mall. When preparing the holiday meal, break your usual 30-minute walk into 10-minute bouts: one before you start your meal prep, one while things are cooking and another with your guests afterward.

If you would like to apply to be featured as a guest blogger, please contact us.

One Response to Dashing Through the Snow

When your holiday to-do list seems particularly insurmountable, it’s easy to let your physical activity plans fall by the wayside. During these busy days, when you don’t think you have time to exercise, is when you need it the most. Regular physical activity helps alleviate stress, prevent weight gain and nurture your spirit. And when your days are filled with doing, doing, doing for others, it gives you that warm feeling of accomplishment that you’ve done something positive for yourself.

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